My name is Camden Aguilera (she/they), the Youth Services Manager at The Center’s Hillcrest Youth Center, and I am thrilled to invite you to celebrate this spooky season as The Center hosts Halloween Movie Nights at Hillcrest Youth Center (HYC) and South Bay Youth Center (SYBC) for youth ages 10-24!
Here at HYC and SBYC, we are dedicated to the needs of LGBTQ+ and nonbinary youth, and youth living with HIV, helping them cope with life’s challenges and develop into thriving adults. For many LGBTQ+ youth, navigating personal discovery, identity, social life, relationships, school, and family can be overwhelming. We see youth who deal with confusion, alienation, and loneliness, which is why we try to create a home away from home where they can be themselves. At HYC and SBYC, we pride ourselves in being a safe, welcoming, and affirming space. Throughout the month, we offer an array of services, including HIV testing, counseling, support groups, social activities, and family advocacy, as well as a place for youth to relax, connect, and express themselves.
This month, we are embracing the spirit of fall and bringing our youth a fun, laidback way to celebrate our favorite spooky holiday: Halloween Movie Nights! We will host four different movie nights for youth ages 10-24, with each night catering to a specific age range.
Those who attend will have a chance to vote on an age-appropriate movie for the night. Popcorn, snacks, and other refreshments will be provided, and we encourage participants to get creative with festive costumes! These events are free, and no RSVP is necessary.
Our Halloween Movie Nights are an excellent opportunity for youth to not only enjoy snacks and entertainment, but to also be in a safe, affirming space where they can connect with each other, foster community, and have access to valuable resources at both HYC and SBYC. This includes our free snack pantry, gender-affirming closet, computer lab, library, and creative spaces where they can make art or play music.
We can’t wait to see our youth at HYC and SBYC movie nights for some spooky, light-hearted fun this Halloween. If you have any questions, feel free to contact HYC@thecentersd.org. Let’s help make this Halloween season safe, fun, and festive for our LGBTQ+ youth. See you there! 🎃
In community,
Camden Aguilera (She/They)
Youth Services Manager